MDI High School Class of 2025 Graduation [PHOTOS]

The MDI High School Class of 2025 graduated on Sunday, June 1st at Bernard Parady Gymnasium in Bar Harbor. It marked the 57th class to graduate!

There were 113 members of the Class of 2025.

Check out the 2025 Class Processing in for Graduation

Harlan Mahoney, a member of the Class of 2025 welcomed everyone.

Principal Matthew Haney then introduced the student speakers.

First up was Fiona St. Germain

Followed by Lucian Avila-Gatz

Principal Haney then presented the Learning Area Achievement Awards. (Thanks to Principal Haney for sending his remarks he read!)

Science Learning Area - The science department would like to recognize Mai Ishimura as our top scholar. Throughout her high school career, Mai reliably demonstrated her desire to dive deep into her learning, asking questions and pondering the ‘why’ of things. Her depth, amazing character, and sense of humor all combined to make her a wonderful student in the classroom. Mai worked well with others and could be relied upon to be a leader in the lab setting, often helping others with calculations and graphing. Outside of the classroom, she was the only senior this year to intern at The Jackson Laboratory, which takes a great deal of time and effort. We are proud of Mai and all the hard work she has put into her learning. We know that regardless of what she pursues next, she is sure to shine. Best of luck to you at Yale, Mai!

Visual Arts - Morgan Matthews has been a breath of fresh air in the Visual Arts Department since his freshman year. Having taken almost every Visual Art class the school has to offer, he has provided steady examples of what artistic behavior should look like. Morgan has been involved in numerous school activities, including the National Art Honor Society, where he has demonstrated a deep understanding of the values within visual art and created work that is consistently meaningful and challenging.

Media Arts - Richard Miller has been a consistent presence in Arts, Digital Media, and Photography classes throughout his years at our school. His interest in Theater, particularly tech, has given him many worthwhile experiences and the ability to gather skills in a wide range of Media, which he has willingly shared and promoted to others, while applying his foundational knowledge to a wide variety of projects. His helpful nature and attention to detail have provided both teachers and classmates opportunities to thrive and develop their own skills in several fundamental media.

Performing Arts - Jacob Willard is an exceptional musician and leader in the MDIHS music program. As a dedicated trombone player in the Symphonic Band, Pep Band, Show Choir Pit Orchestra, Jazz Ensemble, and Jazz Combo, Jacob brings skill, enthusiasm, and a strong sense of teamwork to every rehearsal. In addition to his trombone talents, he also picked up singing in the chorus, learned the double bass this year in orchestra, excelled in the Music Theory class and participated in the Spring Play. He consistently demonstrates a deep love and understanding of music that he shares within all his ensembles. Jacob’s communication skills with his peers and directors are outstanding, making him a role model for his classmates. His commitment to music and his proactive engagement in all rehearsals truly set him apart as a musician and leader. Thank you for your valuable contribution to our programs, Jacob!

Family/Consumer Science - Per Lisy The Family and Consumer Science courses score students using the standards of communication, collaboration, creativity and critical thinking. Per excelled at all of these, ensuring all students’ voices were heard in decision making; taking a leadership role in communicating in her teams; problem solving and reflecting on the process and the product of labs. Per is creative by nature and was not afraid to try new things and be innovative when faced with an issue in the kitchen. She was helpful, friendly, inclusive and engaged. She made every class she was in a better experience for all involved.

World Languages - Corin Baker By definition, curiosity means “eager to know or learn,” and this year’s top scholar in World Languages, Corin Baker, truly embodies that spirit. In the Spanish classroom, Corin is fully engaged—asking thoughtful questions, listening deeply, and constantly refining his language skills. He has also pursued cultural understanding through meaningful interactions in Spain and Guatemala, most notably during the Guatemala Studies Program, where he built strong connections and deepened his knowledge of Maya culture through daily conversations with his host family. We are proud to honor Corin and excited for him as he heads to Macalester College to continue exploring international and cultural relations.

Math - Alex Oehmke - The mathematics department would like to recognize Alex Oehmke as a top scholar of mathematics at Mt. Desert Island High School. Alex took every high level mathematics course and computer science course he could, both at MDIHS and HCTC. Always one to embrace the challenge of a novel problem while also encouraging his classmates to be their very best; every class was better with Alex in attendance. Also one to try new things, Alex joined the Math Team in his junior year, quickly becoming a high scoring member. There is no question he will be missed on our campus and an excellent addition to the Carleton College campus. Best wishes and congratulations, Alex!

Phys Ed/Health - Bowdoin Allen - Bowdoin has taken numerous PE courses throughout his MDIHS career, always exhibiting exemplary behavior and effort while participating. Kind and respectful to his peers and teachers, Bowdoin's ready smile adds a warm welcome to all members of the MDIHS community. As a three sport athlete (soccer, basketball, and tennis), Bowdoin has found physical activity to be a valuable tool to help improve both his focus and his physical conditioning. He was also an important part of the Unified Basketball team this year. MDIHS appreciates your cheerful effort and great attitude, Bowdoin!

Social Studies - Lulu Damon Dong - In a capable and resilient group of COVID-era students, Lulu stands out. She is an insightful and thoughtful analyst who engages deeply with complex material, consistently seeking a meaningful and informed understanding of historical and current issues. Her intellectual integrity and passion for social justice shine—both in the classroom and through her leadership in groups like the Mentorship Program, Civil Rights Team, BEAM, the Anti-Racism Task Force, and the Restorative Board. Lulu, your thoughtful commitment to making our school, community, and country better has left a lasting impact. Colby College’s history department is lucky to have you.

English/Language Arts - Cecilia Blackett - In the spring of her senior year, Cecelia completed the massive undertaking of envisioning, drafting, editing and formalizing her own original historical fiction novella from scratch. Through hard work, much research and perseverance, she created a compelling narrative arc; telling the story convincingly from multiple points of view and creating a historically accurate setting, nuanced dialogue and style. Entering Suffolk University in the fall, Cece will continue her study and practice of creative writing. The very best to you, Cece! Keep calm and write on!

Career/Technical Education - Lauren Davis A driven and engaged student, Lauren took nearly every class the CTE department offered, exploring various career and technical subjects including Makerspace Metal, Business of Speed, Makerspace Wood, Marine Service Technology, and Boatbuilding. These hands-on experiences played a key role in shaping her decision to pursue a degree in International Business/Logistics and Small Vessel Operations at Maine Maritime Academy. Fair winds and following seas to Lauren on her new journey!

Then there was the Presentation of Diplomas!  Classes were called up by Advisories. The Senior Class Advisors were

• Mark Arnold
• Cristy Benson
• Elana Diaz
• Flannery Dillon
• Heather Dillon
• Justin Harding
• Elizabeth Keenan
• Renee Laber
• Rebecca Leamon
• Mark Puglisi
• Miranda Snyder
• Chip Taylor
• Jeff Zaman

Each advisor conducted the tassel turn with his/her advisees.

Then there was nothing left to do then celebrate!

Check out the video from MDI TV Productions

Congratulations to the Class of 2025! Best of luck in the future! We can't wait to see what you do in the future!